Analysis of the Best NBA Players: Perspectives for the 2025-26 Season
The Alofoke Deportes expert panel has completed its 15th annual edition of the NBA’s best players ranking. For a more complete view, we have consulted scouts, coaches, and executives from across the league, who shared their opinions on the Top 100 for the 2025-26 season. Below, we break down the most relevant questions and key points of debate.How Long Will Jokic Stay on Top?
The widespread opinion is that Nikola Jokic, star of the Denver Nuggets and three-time MVP, will maintain his leadership position for at least two more seasons before beginning to decline in the rankings. Experts point out that Jokic’s longevity is due to his playing style, which does not depend on speed or jumping ability, allowing him to maintain a high level of performance as he progresses in his career.The key for Jokic will be his motivation to stay in shape and adapt to the changes in the league.“There’s no reason for his game to decline,” commented an Eastern scout.
Eastern Scout
Who Could Rise to the Top 10 Next Season?
Several players were mentioned as possible candidates to enter the top 10 in the upcoming season. Among them, Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics, Jalen Williams of the Oklahoma City Thunder, Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons, Donovan Mitchell of the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Paolo Banchero of the Orlando Magic. The performance of Williams, who helped Oklahoma City win the NBA title, and the growth of Cunningham, who led Detroit to its best season in a decade, were key factors. Mitchell and Banchero were also considered, as they lead teams with potential to advance in a very competitive conference.“He has size, playmaking ability, shooting, and can defend. He meets many requirements,” said an Eastern executive about Cunningham.
Eastern Executive
What is the Top 5 this Season?
For the second year in a row, the names of Nikola Jokic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Luka Doncic were mentioned by all respondents. Other players such as Victor Wembanyama, Stephen Curry, Anthony Edwards, Kevin Durant, and Donovan Mitchell also received votes.“Wembanyama was already good, and now he has players around him and they are trying to win,” said a scout from the West.
West Scout
Are LeBron, Steph, and KD still in the Top 10?
Despite being 37 or older at the start of the 2025-26 season, LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant are still considered elite players and remain in the top 10. Experts agree that, despite a possible decline in their performance, they still deserve to be on the list, as long as they stay healthy.
“They should be there. They are no longer top 5 players,” commented an assistant coach from the West.
Assistant coach from the West
American Domain in Danger? An American Player at the Top?
With seven consecutive international MVP selections and the presence of young international stars like Victor Wembanyama, the answer to the question of whether an American player could reach number one was mostly negative. However, Cooper Flagg, the first draft pick, received praise for his potential.“You don’t go to the United States team and do what he did, and you don’t get a chance,” said an assistant coach from the East about Flagg.
Assistant coach from the East
Where Will Flagg Be Classified for the 2026-27 Season?
The consensus is that Cooper Flagg will rise significantly in the rankings next season. He is expected to become an All-Star and be in the conversation about whether he should be one in his second year. Some experts expressed concerns about his fit on the Dallas Mavericks team, due to the presence of veteran players.Where Would Joel Embiid Be Ranked?
Most respondents agreed that Joel Embiid, if healthy, is a top-10 or top-15 player. However, considering that Embiid played only 19 games last season, some executives would not include him on the list. Most would place him in the top 40, with some elevating him to the top 25.“The potential is too great to have it much lower,” said an Eastern scout.
Eastern Scout
Knicks vs. Cavs: Which Team is Better?
The question of which team is better, the New York Knicks (seven players in the top 100) or the Cleveland Cavaliers (four players in the top 50), resulted in a tie. Those favoring the Knicks highlighted the team’s depth, while those supporting the Cavaliers pointed to their greater concentration of elite talent.The 2025-26 season promises to be exciting, with Jokic leading the league and new talents emerging to challenge established stars.“They are more battle-tested,” said a Western scout about the Knicks.
Western Scout
